I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood (2023)

I recently purchased this paint with some hesitations due to mixed reviews about its coverage and the number of coats needed. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. I was dealing with a heavily chipped piece of furniture and needed a paint that would cover it well. With just one coat, I noticed a significant improvement in the appearance of the piece. To achieve a darker grey color, I applied three coats, and the paint rolled on smoothly and dried quickly. I used the chalked gray for the outside of the wardrobe, the glossy white for the inside, and the black spray paint for the handles. Despite my initial concerns, the 30ml can was more than enough to cover the almost 6ft wardrobe, and I still had more than half of the second can left. I would highly recommend this paint.

When I was researching similar products, I noticed that the reviews for other brands were not promising. However, after reading positive reviews about the Rustoleum version, I decided to give it a try, despite its higher price. I am extremely glad that I did because this paint is truly amazing. I am currently updating my 12-year-old RV by painting over the ugly vinyl wall coverings, and this paint has exceeded my expectations. With just one coat, it provides excellent coverage and sticks well even on surfaces where regular Kilz struggles to adhere. It is also easy to wash and touch up. I have previously used Rustoleum's kitchen cabinet kits with great results, and this product has continued to impress me. If I can't find a color that suits my needs, I use the chalked paint as a primer and then cover it with the regular Rustoleum matte latex paint to achieve the desired result. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this product.

As someone who has been chalk painting for years, I have primarily used brands like Annie Sloan or Renaissance Chalk paint. However, when it came to painting my high-traffic kitchen plank wood counters, I was unsure about the durability of those brands. Having had success with Rustoleum paints in the past, I decided to try their chalked paint, particularly because it claimed to be a true white. Finding a true white chalk paint can be challenging, so I was intrigued by the positive reviews mentioning the color accuracy of this product. I was in the process of remodeling my entire home, and I envisioned having white wood kitchen counters. After having the boards sanded and laid on top of the cabinets, I started painting right in the kitchen. However, to my initial disappointment, the paint did not appear white and instead had a noticeable hint of blue, making it seem as if the paint was tinted. I even tried using a different brush, but the result was the same. Worried about the blue hue, I ended up using a flat white paint on one counter. However, to my surprise, the Rustoleum chalked paint dried completely white, and I was amazed by how true and stunning the color turned out to be. I plan to use this paint on the other counter as well because of its true white finish. Although I was initially concerned about the color discrepancy, I am thrilled with the results. The counters look amazing, and I believe this chalk paint rivals the quality of Annie Sloan or Renaissance. I won't be using wax but will instead apply several coats of water-based poly with light sanding in between for added durability. I am truly in love with this chalk paint and its ability to transform my kitchen counters.

Please note that my island is not yet finished, but it will be made of plank wood stained to match the shelves. However, the counters, painted with this chalk paint, look absolutely stunning.

As someone who enjoys painting as a hobby, I have had the opportunity to explore different types of paint, including metallic spray paint. While I am not a professional artist, I have learned a few things about using metallic paint on household items that I would like to share.

One important aspect to keep in mind when using metallic paint is its opacity. Unlike regular paint, metallic paint tends to be somewhat translucent due to the shimmer it contains, which is usually derived from mica or manufactured glitter. If you are expecting metallic paint to be as opaque as regular paint, you might be disappointed. It is crucial to have realistic expectations and understand that metallic finishes are not completely opaque.

To achieve the best results with metallic paint, I recommend using a base coat as a primer. In my experience, a black base coat works well with metallic paints, unless you are using a clear glitter spray that is entirely translucent. The use of a black base enhances the metallic finish and reduces streakiness. Even if you happen to miss a few spots during application, it is less noticeable on a dark base. Additionally, dark colors reflect more light, adding to the overall effect of the metallic finish.

Since metallic spray paint is semi-sheer, applying fewer coats over a black base can still yield a good color result. However, if you desire an opaque finish, be prepared to apply several coats, which can be time-consuming and costly as it may require purchasing extra cans of paint. It would be helpful if spray paint companies provided opacity information on their cans, similar to what is typically found on artist paints. This way, customers would have a better understanding of what to expect from the product.

Another factor to consider is that metallic finishes are more prone to fading over time when exposed to UV light. While the fading usually takes years to occur, it is still recommended to apply a protective clear coat over the metallic paint. This clear coat not only seals the paint but also offers some UV protection and added durability, preventing the paint from chipping off. Personally, I find Krylon's Crystal Clear acrylic coating to be a suitable option as it meets these requirements and is moisture resistant. However, the choice of clear coat may vary depending on the specific project and individual preferences.

Speaking from my own experience, I recently used a turquoise metallic spray paint on black plastic crates, transforming them from unattractive to eye-catching pieces. I applied two coats of paint over a black base, which created a beautiful dimension and almost an ombre effect. These crates will be placed on highly reflective stainless steel shelves, which is why I chose a metallic finish for them. The end result has made me eager to use this color on various items throughout my home.

I am extremely impressed with this product! It provides a beautiful glossy finish to the rocks I paint, and what's even better is that they can be left outside in the sun and rain without any damage. The durability of this glaze is truly remarkable.

Recently, I used this glaze to coat a large pot, measuring 18" tall by 20" wide. Before applying the glaze, I made sure to clean the pot thoroughly by soaping it, pressure washing it, and allowing it to dry. I applied one coat on the inside and two coats on the outside, using the entire can. The end result was stunning, with a nice shine that greatly enhanced the overall appearance of the pot.

In addition to using it on pots, I also use this glaze to coat my pottery water catchers that go under my plants. These catchers prevent water from being absorbed by the clay and damaging my furniture. I used to struggle to find this product at my local hardware store, but I am thrilled that I can now conveniently purchase it through Amazon.

I cannot stress enough how fantastic this glaze is for achieving a professional, glass-like finish. The attached photo showcases a layered project I worked on, with the first coat of the glaze applied. If the initial coat looks this impressive, I can only imagine how it will look after a light sanding and a few more coats. The drying time is reasonable, but I prefer to err on the side of caution and let it dry overnight before applying the second coat.

I have been using this glaze for approximately three months now, and I can confidently say that it has become my go-to product for all of my hobby projects. While it may be slightly more expensive than other options on the market, its exceptional quality justifies the price. Furthermore, a little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective investment in the long run.

I recently discovered this amazing product that completely transforms the finish of graphite artwork. As a graphite artist, I have always been frustrated with the shiny finish that dark pencils tend to create. Even matte pencils still leave a glossy surface. However, this product has completely changed the game for me. I use a UV fixative during the working process and then give a final spray with this product, and the result is a beautifully matte finish that enhances the details of my artwork. It's like a dream come true for graphite artists like myself. I can confidently give this product a perfect 10 out of 10.

On the other hand, I must advise caution when using this product on color pencil art. It tends to fade the colors, which is not ideal. So, if you primarily work with color pencils, this might not be the best match for you. However, for graphite artists, this product is an absolute game-changer.

Not only is this product fantastic for graphite art, but it also works wonders on pastel paintings. I love how it doesn't affect the colors and provides a protective layer for my artwork. It's a must-have in my art studio.

One thing to note is that when using this product, it's important to spray an even coat. Up close, uneven application can be noticeable. However, when applied correctly, it creates a beautiful matte finish that eliminates any glassy reflections, making it perfect for glass-covered pictures in sunny rooms.

In addition to its use in art, I have also found this product to be incredibly useful in doll restoration. After applying regular makeup on doll faces, I spray this product to achieve a beautiful fine finish. It truly works wonders.

Lastly, as a teacher, I also use this product in my classroom for anything that goes up on the wall. It provides a protective layer and ensures that my students' work stays intact. However, I would recommend using it outside due to the fumes.

I recently decided to try something different for my woodworking projects and came across Aqua Coat clear lacquer. Having had a positive experience with their grain filler in the past, I decided to give this product a try on a chess board made of maple and purpleheart wood. I must say, I was thoroughly impressed with the results.

The application process was smooth and the lacquer dried quickly, allowing me to apply multiple coats in a single day. Comparing it to water-based acrylics like Minwax Polycrylic, I found that Aqua Coat applied and looked better. While it may not be as nice as a nitro-based lacquer, it is definitely a great alternative, especially due to its ease of application and lack of strong VOC odors. For guitar projects, particularly acoustic ones, I would still recommend sticking to nitro lacquer.

When it comes to spraying, I found that Aqua Coat sprayed effortlessly using an HVLP and could be thinned with up to 5% water if necessary. I even tested it on a guitar body that wasn't a custom order, and it leveled out beautifully. Previously, I had been using General Finishes Pre Cat and High Performance, but I prefer using Aqua Coat now, and so does my finish sprayer.

For those considering using a brush with this lacquer, I would advise against it. Instead, opt for a foam pad that has been pre-wet to a damp touch. This method also helps prevent any wet fish-eyes from forming. Load the foam pad generously and apply enough to cover the area with no more than three passes. You may notice small bubbles initially, but these will disappear over time. Avoid removing them with additional passes, as they are likely a result of the rheology modifiers in the product. Simply leave the room for a while, engage in other activities, and when you return, the bubbles will be gone.

I should note that some people who didn't have a positive experience with this product may have used a paint brush, such as a Purdy or Wooster, thinking it was the right tool for the job. However, it's important to remember that Aqua Coat is not paint, so using a paint brush is not recommended. Stick to a 3" foam pad, pre-wet it, and overload it with the lacquer. If needed, you can also cut the product with 5% water.

As someone who has been in the architectural coatings business for 28 years, I can attest to the fact that waterborne topcoats have come a long way since they were introduced in the early 90s. Aqua Coat clear lacquer is a testament to the advancements in technology, utilizing cross-link polymers and rheology modifiers to achieve a glassy surface. I applied this lacquer to a guitar body that had been dyed with trans-tint, and the color really stood out, similar to an oil-based finish, but with the clarity of a waterborne product. I block sanded each coat with progressively finer grits, starting with 400g and ending with 1500g. Finally, I polished the surface with a cut and buff to achieve a glossy finish.

-KB, Kustom Builder

I recently had to refinish my ironing board due to rust issues, and I found the perfect solution in Rust-oleum paint. After reading positive reviews about using this paint on metal furniture, I decided to give it a try, and I'm glad I did.

To start the refinishing process, I used vinegar and paper towels to remove the rust from the ironing board. For stubborn spots, I had to use steel wool. Once the rust was removed, I hosed down the ironing board and dried it immediately to prevent further rusting.

To ensure a thorough and long-lasting finish, I covered the ironing board legs with plastic wrap and applied two coats of the Rust-oleum paint on the underside, followed by three coats on top. I allowed a few hours of drying time between coats and let the ironing board stand outside for 24 hours after the final coat.

I want to emphasize that I completed this project outdoors and would not recommend doing it indoors. Safety precautions are important when using aerosol sprays.

The end result exceeded my expectations. My ironing board now looks brand new, and I even purchased a replacement board cover to enhance the overall appearance. With this refinishing project, I am confident that my ironing board will last for many years to come.

In addition to its effectiveness on an ironing board, I was pleasantly surprised by the versatility of Rust-oleum paint. A customer mentioned using it on their car fender, and I decided to give it a try. I used one and a half cans to paint the fender, and the result was impressive. I plan to continue using this paint on my car's front bumper and hood, as it provides a cost-effective alternative to professional auto painting services, which quoted me $2,500 for the entire car. With just about $50, I can achieve the desired color consistency and improve the overall appearance of my vehicle.

While I'm not aiming to impress anyone, I'm happy with the outcome of using Rust-oleum enamel spray. It offers great coverage and durability, making it a reliable choice for various refinishing projects. I highly recommend this product for anyone looking to refresh the look of their ironing board or explore creative DIY projects without breaking the bank.

I have been using this product for various projects and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. Not only does it provide an extra layer of protection, but it also gives a shiny coat to whatever it is applied to. I have used it on lawn figurines, a chandelier, a slop sink, and even rocks that I found. The shine on the rocks was particularly impressive, as the picture does not do it justice. I will definitely be purchasing this spray again for future projects.

In terms of application, I found that using three coats of spray paint with light sanding in between yielded the best results. I have ordered multiple cans for different projects and have been pleased with the finished outcome. I even have before and after photos of a recent project to show the difference. Overall, I highly recommend this product.

As a hobbyist woodworker, I am always looking for convenient and easy-to-use products. This lacquer spray has been a game-changer for me. Previously, I would shy away from spraying small projects due to the setup and cleanup involved with my HVLP sprayers. However, this lacquer spray has made the process much simpler. I recently used it on an oak dart board cabinet after gel-staining and glazing, and it couldn't have been easier. I was glad I bought two cans as I needed a bit more than the first. The best part is that there were no runs or drips.

Lastly, I used this spray to add a protective sheen to my bench after refinishing it. The application was smooth and it left a nice sheen on the surface. Overall, I am very satisfied with this product and would highly recommend it to others.

I recently used this nitro lacquer for a guitar build and was impressed with the results. I wanted to create a relic look and was able to achieve it by tinting the lacquer with pigment. I used actual pigment powder, dissolved it in mineral spirits, and added it to the lacquer for the desired finish. Using a HVLP paint gun, I sprayed it on and cured it with a UV lamp. By applying heat and cold, I was able to create cracking and aging effects, giving my guitar a vintage aged blonde tele appearance. The colors I used, ocre, brown, and gold, worked well for this purpose.

What I appreciate about this lacquer is its traditional formula. It dries hard, cures quickly, and doesn't contain excessive plasticizers. It mimics the behavior of old lacquer, which means it can crack, chip, and age naturally. When sprayed with a 1:1 ratio of lacquer thinner, it lays down nicely. However, if you plan to brush it on, you may need to adjust the consistency with thinners and/or retarders. I would caution against using this product if you're unfamiliar with lacquer processes, as it requires some expertise to achieve optimal results.

Despite my initial lack of knowledge and not having a sprayer, I was able to achieve great results by using a sponge roller. I applied the lacquer to my dining room table, and it turned out as if it had been done by a professional. I highly recommend this product for anyone looking to tackle a project like this, and I would definitely purchase it again for future projects.

One thing worth mentioning is that even though the label states it is for brush-on application, this lacquer can be thinned and sprayed as well. I found it to do an excellent job when applied with a sprayer.

I recently discovered Kamar Varnish after struggling to find a top coat that would work well with my mixed media projects. With different materials and inks reacting differently to various top coats, it was a challenge to find one that would protect my artwork without compromising the colors and textures. After conducting thorough online research, I decided to give Kamar Varnish a try, and I must say, I was not disappointed.

For one of my projects, which involved an eco-printed old book page, Staz-On ink, watercolor, Prismacolor Verithin pencils, and die cuts from TH papers, I adhered the artwork to a canvas panel using Liquitex gel medium. After completing the piece, I sprayed two light coats of Kamar Varnish, and I was pleased with the results. The varnish not only intensified the colors slightly, giving the artwork a nice pop, but it also provided a satin finish. I was particularly impressed by the fact that the varnish concealed any visible book text from the back side of the base piece once it dried.

One of the great things about Kamar Varnish is that it allows for versatility. If I wanted a matte or glossy finish, I could easily apply a different top coat over it or continue working on the piece further. However, I was satisfied with the satin finish achieved with just two coats of Kamar Varnish and decided not to make any additional changes.

It's worth mentioning that if you experience any clogging of the spray tip, a simple trick is to shake the can, turn it upside down, and give it a quick spray to clean the tip. Additionally, it's important to use this product in a well-ventilated area, as it does have some odor, although not as strong as other similar products I've used in the past.

If I come across any issues that may affect the quality or longevity of my mixed media pieces in the future, I will be sure to update my review. But for now, I am a happy and satisfied customer of Kamar Varnish.

After conducting extensive research and reading numerous reviews, I decided to try out the Gloss spray from Krylon, despite initially wanting a matte finish. While the product itself is of good quality, I believe there is a need for rebranding to avoid any confusion. Surprisingly, the Gloss spray actually provides a matte finish, while the Matte spray has a more frosty appearance. I would not recommend using the Matte spray on paintings, as it may not yield desirable results. However, the Gloss spray worked perfectly for my watercolor paintings, providing a protective seal without adding any unwanted glossiness.

I purchased this fixative a couple of months ago specifically to preserve and strengthen dried flowers from my peonies bush and bouquets. Living in a high humidity area like New Jersey, finding a low humidity day during the summer proved to be quite challenging. Thankfully, with the arrival of fall, I finally had the opportunity to use this fixative. It is crucial to apply this product outdoors, as the fumes can be overpowering. I had to wear a mask due to the strength of the odor, but it was manageable since I had some readily available due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the windy conditions, I made sure to spray in a direction away from me. Although some of the flowers had already lost petals prior to spraying, I was able to use a glue gun to secure loose bases and reattach fallen petals. The fixative did an excellent job of strengthening the dried flowers, as I did not encounter any issues with breaking or falling petals when arranging them into a fall bouquet. Overall, I consider this fixative a winner for preserving dried flowers, and I highly recommend using the gloss version.

Recently, I transformed a piece of tree into a birdhouse. As you can see from the attached image, the surfaces of the birdhouse are quite irregular. To protect it from the elements, I applied two coats of Krylon Clear Aerosol. The spray was easy to apply and covered even the smallest nooks and crannies, ensuring a thorough protective coating. Additionally, the spray dried quickly, leaving a lovely sheen on the entire birdhouse. I am extremely satisfied with the product's performance and ease of application, as it has provided an extra layer of protection for my birdhouse to withstand outdoor conditions.

As an artist, I have used the Krylon UV-Resistant Gloss spray on numerous occasions, and it has never failed to impress me. The attached image showcases a recent commission I completed and sealed with this product. Not only does the UV-resistant feature protect the artwork from harmful sun rays, but it also provides water resistance and adds a transparent, glossy sheen to the finished piece. I highly recommend this product to fellow artists looking for reliable protection and a professional finish for their artwork.